The Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) on Tuesday has issued a directive that landlords can only raise rent at two-year intervals from the start of a tenancy, among a slew of other directives for rented accommodation.

The announcement was made at a press conference at the DNCC Nagar Bhaban in Gulshan-2 regarding the “Guidelines on House Rent in Dhaka.”

During the press briefing, DNCC Administrator Mohammad Ejaz read out the directives issued under the Rent Control Act, 1991, to ensure tenants’ rights. The key points of the guidelines are as follows:

Landlords must maintain their houses in a habitable condition.

Continuous utility services (gas, electricity, water), daily household waste collection, and other facilities must be ensured. Any disruption should be reported to the landlord, who must promptly resolve the issue.

With the landlord’s prior approval, tenants may use rooftops, verandas, or open spaces for gardening (flowers, fruits, or vegetables).

Due to increasing accidents caused by fire, earthquakes, and other man-made or natural disasters, landlords must provide tenants with keys to the roof and main gate, subject to conditions, for safety purposes.

Tenants must pay rent by the 10th of each month. Landlords must issue a written receipt signed by both parties for each monthly payment.

Landlords must maintain overall house security and discipline and consult tenants before taking any measures. Any action should be mutually agreed upon through discussion.

The effective rent will remain valid for up to two years. Rent increases may be applied in June–July.

Rent cannot be increased under any circumstances before two years following the start of a tenant's contract. After two years, rent may be adjusted through mutual agreement.

If tenants fail to pay rent on time, landlords should first issue verbal warnings and reminders. If unpaid, a written notice allowing two months for vacating the house can be served, and the rental agreement may be terminated.

For residential buildings, the rent agreement may be canceled with a two-month notice by either party.

Annual rent under the standard rent guideline should not exceed 15% of the current market value.

Written agreements must specify all conditions, including rent amount, advance payment, and vacating terms.

Rent advance cannot exceed 1–3 months.

Landlord and tenant associations must be formed in each ward within the city corporation area. Representatives will mediate rent disputes locally.

Any issues should first be resolved through discussions between landlord and tenant associations. If unresolved, the matter should be reported to the regional executive officer of the city corporation.

To safeguard tenant rights, the DNCC will ensure compliance with the Rent Control Act, 1991, and conduct zonal consultations and awareness programs if any issues arise.